Jesus Revealed Pt. 18 - Processing DeathSample

Jesus' Death is Confirmed  

Thoughts on the Passage

Jesus really died. That may seem strange to say, but at the time, there were people saying that Jesus really did not die on the cross. Some still say that today. John wants to make sure that everyone knows that there is no truth to that rumour – John was there, John testified to the truth of Jesus’ death.

John also quotes two Old Testament passages that were fulfilled with the death of Jesus. Jesus could not fulfill these because He had died. However, God made sure that they would be fulfilled. 

First, no bones would be broken. The Passover lamb was eaten, but they did not break any of its bones. The Passover lamb represents Jesus (its blood placed on the door and lintel protected the people from death) and so as part of the fulfilment, Jesus’ bones were not broken either. 

Second, Jesus was pierced with a spear to make sure He was dead – just as Zechariah said this act would identify the Messiah. [NOTE, there is still future fulfilment of Zechariah’s prophecy as well].

Why does John take so much time to describe the death of Jesus? Because this is why the Son of God came to this world. The death of Jesus was necessary to fulfilment the mission of the Son of God. It was predicted to happen this way, it was documented, John testified to its accuracy and the Roman soldiers confirmed it by their actions. Jesus fulfilled His purpose.

Application

Do not be afraid to declare the death of Jesus. It is accurate, it is real and it was necessary.

When we look at the mission God has for us – look to Jesus for the strength necessary to fulfill it every day. Loving God, loving our neighbour, being a faithful witness to the nations and discipling people from the nations.

Time to Pray

Father, today as we look to the cross, we see that Jesus truly finished His ministry. There was no deception. I want to make sure that I speak clearly about it as well. I do not want people around me to wonder if I believe this or get caught up with doubt in my own life. You gave Jesus this mission and He fulfilled it. You have given us different kinds of work to do. I want to be diligent to complete that just as Jesus was diligent to complete His. It will involve sacrifice and cost. It will be worth it. One day I will look on Jesus and see the cost of His obedience and faithfulness – I want Him to look at me and see faithfulness as well. In Jesus’ name, Amen.